In a recent column ("NAFCU's Strengths and Weaknesses"), Mike Welch makes the point that NAFCU is a direct membership organization, but he then goes on to add, "credit unions are members, not leagues as in the case of NAFCU's rival CU trade group CUNA." As chairman of the CUNA Renewal Project Steering Committee, I feel compelled to clarify that since 1996 individual credit unions as well as leagues have been direct members of CUNA. That change in governance was a centerpiece of the Renewal Project. As a result, credit unions elect CUNA Board members, hold the majority of board seats, and many-like mine-don't hesitate to contact CUNA directly when we need or want to convey information or our viewpoints. No doubt each of the national trade organizations has its respective strong points, but direct membership can no longer be considered a differentiating factor. Robert Bream President/CEO United Airlines Employees CU Chicago, Ill.